Inspired by a tragic family incident, South African developer Leonora Tima has created Grit, a groundbreaking digital platform designed to address gender-based violence (GBV) in her country. The app, which features an AI chatbot named Zuzi, aims to provide support, gather evidence, and offer immediate assistance to abuse survivors. Leonora’s motivation stemmed from the brutal murder of her 19-year-old pregnant relative in 2020, a crime that went unnoticed in the media due to the alarming frequency of such cases in South Africa. Determined to challenge the normalization of violence against women, Leonora developed Grit with input from local communities and financial backing from organizations like Mozilla, the Gates Foundation, and the Patrick McGovern Foundation. The app includes three key features: a help button that records audio and alerts a rapid-response call center, a secure digital vault for storing evidence, and Zuzi, an AI chatbot offering guidance and support. Grit has already garnered 13,000 users and received 10,000 help requests in September alone. While the app has drawn international acclaim, experts caution that AI tools should complement, not replace, human empathy and professional counseling. Leonora emphasizes the importance of diverse representation in AI development to ensure technology reflects the realities of its users.
作者： admin
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Two Louvre jewel heist suspects a couple with children, reveals France prosecutor
In a shocking revelation, French authorities have identified two suspects in the audacious Louvre jewel heist as a couple with children. The pair, aged 37 and 38, were arrested after their DNA was discovered in the basket lift used during the robbery. The heist, which took place last month, saw a four-man gang steal jewelry worth an estimated $102 million from the Louvre, the world’s most-visited art museum, in just seven minutes. The suspects fled on high-powered scooters after breaking into the museum’s Apollo Gallery, which houses the French crown jewels. The couple, along with two other accomplices, have been charged and remanded in custody, while at least one perpetrator remains at large. The stolen jewels have yet to be recovered. Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau described the suspects as small-time criminals, not linked to organized crime groups. The man has 11 previous convictions, mostly for theft, while the woman appeared in tears during her court appearance, expressing fear for her children and herself. The investigation continues as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the crime.
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Meet Dubai cyclist who rides 70km a week on one wheel
Dubai resident Osman Akbar has turned heads with his unique cycling prowess, mastering the art of riding on a single wheel. The British national, who recently showcased his skills during the Dubai Ride event, cycles over 70 kilometers weekly, performing wheelies with precision and flair. For Osman, this skill is more than just a hobby—it’s a nostalgic journey back to his childhood. ‘I used to do wheelies as a kid, but I forgot how over time. In January 2024, I decided to relearn it,’ he shared with Khaleej Times. Months of practice in his Arabian Ranches community earned him the nickname ‘the wheelie guy,’ as he honed his technique in preparation for the Dubai Ride. The event, which attracted over 40,000 participants, offered cyclists the chance to ride past Dubai’s iconic landmarks, including the Museum of the Future, where Osman fulfilled a dream by performing a wheelie. The festivities also included bike customization stations and live DJ performances, making it a memorable experience for all. Osman, who only discovered the event in 2024, marked his calendar for 2025 and seized the opportunity to showcase his passion. ‘It felt amazing to wheelie in front of such an iconic location,’ he said, reflecting on his achievement.
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India space agency launches its heaviest satellite
India has taken a significant leap in its space exploration endeavors with the successful launch of its heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03, on Sunday. The satellite, weighing an impressive 4,410 kilograms (9,722 pounds), was propelled into orbit from the Sriharikota spaceport in Andhra Pradesh at 5:26 pm (1156 GMT). This event marks a pivotal moment in India’s rapidly expanding space program, which has gained substantial momentum over the past decade. The CMS-03 satellite was launched using the advanced LVM3-M5 rocket, an upgraded version of the vehicle that facilitated India’s historic unmanned lunar landing in August 2023. Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the achievement, stating, ‘Our space sector continues to make us proud!’ He also reiterated India’s ambitious goal of sending an Indian astronaut to the Moon by 2040. The satellite is expected to enhance secure communication links for the Indian Navy, connecting ships, aircraft, and submarines. This launch underscores India’s growing capabilities in space technology, positioning it alongside global leaders such as Russia, the United States, and China, which have previously achieved controlled lunar landings. The nation’s space ambitions were further highlighted earlier this year when Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force test pilot, became the second Indian to travel to space and the first to reach the International Space Station, paving the way for India’s planned crewed mission in 2027.
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OPEC+ set to agree another modest oil output increase, sources say
In a life-changing moment, an Indian expatriate in the United Arab Emirates has clinched the Dh25-million grand prize in the latest Big Ticket draw. The winner, whose identity remains undisclosed, is now among the select few to have hit the jackpot in this highly anticipated lottery event. The Big Ticket draw, known for its massive cash prizes, continues to attract participants from across the globe, offering a chance to transform lives overnight. Meanwhile, Dubai has unveiled plans for an Education Expo, set to feature over 60 private schools and early learning centers. The expo aims to showcase the latest advancements in education and provide parents with comprehensive insights into the best learning environments for their children. This dual announcement highlights the UAE’s commitment to fostering both individual prosperity and educational excellence.
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Iran vows to rebuild nuclear sites ‘stronger than before’
Iran has vowed to reconstruct its nuclear facilities ‘stronger than before’ following extensive damage caused by Israeli and US strikes. President Masoud Pezeshkian, during a visit to the country’s nuclear organization, emphasized that the destruction of buildings would not hinder Iran’s nuclear ambitions. He asserted that Iranian scientists retain the necessary expertise to rebuild and advance the program. Pezeshkian’s remarks echo his earlier statements in February, where he warned of rebuilding efforts if sites were attacked. The strikes, which occurred in June, marked an unprecedented escalation, with Israel targeting nuclear, military, and residential areas, resulting in significant casualties among Iranian scientists. Iran responded with ballistic missile attacks on Israeli cities. Amidst the tension, Oman has urged both Iran and the United States to revive stalled diplomatic talks. Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi called for renewed negotiations during the IISS Manama Dialogue in Bahrain. Iranian government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani confirmed that Tehran has received messages regarding resuming diplomacy but provided no further details. Oman had previously hosted five rounds of US-Iran talks this year, but the sixth round was disrupted by Israel’s strikes. The conflict has also led to the reinstatement of UN sanctions against Iran, triggered by Britain, Germany, and France over alleged non-compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal.
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Pakistan awards first offshore oil exploration blocks for decades
In a landmark move to bolster its energy sector, Pakistan has awarded 23 offshore oil exploration blocks to four consortiums led by local energy companies, marking its first such bidding round since 2007. The awards, announced by the energy ministry on Friday, cover approximately 53,500 square kilometers of the country’s offshore zone. The successful bidders include state-run entities Oil and Gas Development Co. Ltd (OGDCL), Pakistan Petroleum Ltd (PPL), and Mari Petroleum, alongside privately-owned Prime Energy, backed by Hub Power Company (Hubco).
Among the foreign partners, Turkey’s national oil company, TPAO, secured a 25% stake in one of the blocks and operational rights through a joint agreement with PPL. Other international participants include Hong Kong-based United Energy Group, while local players Orient Petroleum and Fatima Petroleum also joined the consortiums. The four groups collectively committed to an initial investment of $80 million over three years, with potential total investments soaring to between $750 million and $1 billion if drilling progresses.
Pakistan’s offshore zone, spanning 300,000 square kilometers and bordering energy-rich nations like Oman, the UAE, and Iran, has seen minimal exploration since the country’s independence in 1947, with only 18 wells drilled to date. This initiative aims to unlock the region’s untapped hydrocarbon potential and reduce Pakistan’s reliance on oil imports, which currently account for half of its consumption. The move follows the exit of U.S. major Exxon Mobil after the unsuccessful Kekra-1 well in 2019, signaling a renewed effort to attract foreign investment in the energy sector.
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Look: Over 300 volunteers, people of determination renovate Sharjah charity school
In a remarkable display of community spirit, over 300 volunteers, including individuals of determination, came together to renovate Al Khairiya Charity School in Samnan, Sharjah. The initiative, titled ‘Community-Inspired Schools,’ was launched by the Ministry of Community Empowerment in collaboration with the Emirates Foundation and local partners. This event marked the Sharjah edition of the ‘7 Over 7’ initiative, part of the UAE’s broader Volunteering and Community Engagement Framework. Volunteers of all ages participated in activities ranging from cleaning classrooms and painting murals to planting seedlings and implementing sustainable agriculture projects. The event not only revitalized the school’s infrastructure but also fostered a sense of unity and purpose among participants. Among the volunteers was Noureddine Amasha, a 16-year-old with determination, who shared his enthusiasm for contributing despite personal challenges. The initiative also included a homemade organic composting project, which had previously won global recognition at the COP28 ‘Preserving Grace’ conference. Teachers Halima Al Dhanhani and Huda Al Zahouri led efforts to educate volunteers on sustainable practices. The event concluded with a transformed school environment, ready to inspire and support its students. Mohammed Abdulhamid AlHosani, Director of Leadership and Empowerment at the Emirates Foundation, emphasized the UAE’s unique culture of volunteerism, where citizens and residents alike are eager to give back. The ‘Seven Opportunities in Seven Emirates’ program aims to expand volunteer opportunities across various fields, ensuring each emirate benefits from tailored initiatives.
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Multiply Group’s strategic merger sets stage for UAE’s next investment supercycle
Multiply Group is poised to redefine its position in the global investment landscape following a transformative merger that CEO Samia Bouazza heralds as ‘a whole new beginning.’ Since its listing on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange four years ago, the company has tripled its market capitalization, with revenues soaring from Dh300 million to Dh2 billion and Ebitda increasing eightfold. The merger, structured as a share swap, will elevate Multiply’s capital base from Dh2.8 billion to Dh8.64 billion, with total outstanding shares reaching 34.5 billion. A 39% free float is anticipated to enhance trading liquidity and improve index weightings in MSCI, FTSE, and FADX 15. The acquisition of IHC’s stakes in 2PointZero and Ghitha Holding is not merely a financial transaction but a fusion of visions, capital, and AI tools. This strategic move expands Multiply’s reach across six sectors, including consumer-focused industries and energy-driven ventures. The energy portfolio now spans the full value chain, from copper and tin mining in Zambia and Congo to renewable energy exports across 120 countries. Multiply’s consumer portfolio is equally robust, encompassing apparel, beauty, media, mobility, and packaging. Ghitha Holding adds a defensive layer with its focus on food production ‘from farm to fork,’ a sector Bouazza deems essential during economic downturns. The merger positions Multiply for stronger investor inflows and global brand expansion, with operations already spanning 85 countries. Bouazza emphasized disciplined execution in acquisitions, targeting a minimum 15% IRR and Dh1 billion in Ebitda within three years. Organic growth is also accelerating, with subsidiaries scaling across the GCC and Latin America. The merger, pending regulatory approval, is set to create one of the most dynamic energy and consumer platforms in the UAE.
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Two UK nationals held for train stabbing; police rules out terrorism
In a shocking incident on Saturday evening, two British nationals were apprehended by UK police following a mass stabbing on a train in eastern England. The attack, which occurred shortly after the train departed Peterborough, has been confirmed as non-terrorist-related by authorities. The suspects, identified as a 32-year-old Black British male and a 35-year-old British national of Caribbean descent, were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. British Transport Police Superintendent John Loveless emphasized that there is no evidence linking the incident to terrorism. Armed police swiftly responded to the scene after receiving alerts around 7:40 PM GMT. The train was cordoned off as a crime scene, with passengers evacuated and provided with space blankets. The East of England Ambulance Service deployed a significant response, including ambulances and air support, to Huntingdon station. Train operator London North Eastern Railway (LNER) warned of major disruptions, urging passengers to avoid travel. Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mayor Paul Bristow expressed his condolences, describing the event as ‘horrendous.’ This incident highlights the ongoing issue of knife crime in the UK, which Prime Minister Keir Starmer has labeled a ‘national crisis.’ Despite stringent gun controls, knife-related offenses have surged, prompting government efforts to curb their use. Recent data shows a 18% decline in knife murders, yet incidents like this underscore the persistent challenge.